Synthesis, properties, and state-of-the-art advances in surface tuning of borophene for emerging applications

Being composed of boron atoms that can be maneuvered to orchestrate low planar hexagonal structures, this two-dimensional material carefully exhibits versatility and has conventional covalent bonds between each atom. Borophene has recently proliferated the scientific research community by storm, trailblazing industries from fine chemicals, electrical equipment manufacturing, and biomedical innovation up to sustainable energy. Here, we provide streamlined information and particulars about the recent advances in the evolution of borophene since its inception and the essence of its electrocatalytic applications. We first introduce the sophisticatedly cultivated progress in borophene's structural, mechanical, optical, and electrical properties and further discuss its variegated polymorphism. Subsequently, we also delve into several capable synthesis techniques and recently concocted surface tuning and doping methods. Finally, we analyze the advancing state-of-the-art applications of this two-dimensional nanomaterial under investigation, ranging from bioimaging, energy storage, electrode reduction, and electrochemical sensing. Further, we have broadly discussed the future insights and challenges that borophene brings.